Case Studies - Girl-friendly Science Lessons

‘How do I ensure my science lesson plans encourage girls as well as boys to think about physics being a suitable subject post-16?’

Science teacher KS3

Advice

The Institute of Physics has undertaken lots of research into how teaching and learning can be more inclusive, particularly in relation to girls and this would be a good starting point to check your practice against their suggestions. Have a look at the Action Research Report which has recommendations for teachers, from teachers who have undertaken some action research themselves. Your local Science Learning Centre may offer courses on how to work more effectively with girls/boys. Keep an eye out for the STEM Subject Choice and Careers CPD courses and materials available on the website below.

The use of Case Studies and Role Models has been shown to have a powerful impact. The activities on Future Morph encourage girls to look at other options (eg the 'What Might You Be' game) and other websites will give you resources to help plan your lessons and some give role models, case studies of women who have been successful in STEM careers. You could also use the 'Values Game' on the WISE website to give the learners a different approach to career planning.